ERGA-BGE reference genome of <i>Diadema setosum:</i> the Black Longspine Urchin invading the Mediterranean sea

The <i>Diadema setosum</i> reference genome is important for understanding the species adaptation to the Mediterranean marine environment, where it has been newly introduced. The species is a Lessepsian migrant, gradually expanding to the eastern Mediterranean basin, driven by rising water temperature. <i>Diadema setosum</i> often dominates over native sea urchin species or coexists with them in rocky habitats. Sea urchins are environment-forming species, as they are intensive grazers responsible for habitat degradation and bottom erosion. A high-quality reference genome could provide valuable insights into the adaptive ability of <i>D. setosum</i> populations, supporting better monitoring and conservation efforts. Additionally, the genome will also contribute towards having a record of recently introduced populations to the Mediterranean, allowing researchers to track their evolution over time. A total of 22 contiguous chromosomal pseudomolecules were assembled from the genome sequence. This chromosome-level assembly encompasses 0.91 Gb, composed of 745 contigs and 101 scaffolds, with contig and scaffold N50 values of 2.2 Mb and 39.8 Mb, respectively.